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5 Best Things for Arthritis

As the leading cause of disability in people older than fifty-five years, arthritis affects one in five adults in the United States. However, remembering the following tips could help to reduce arthritis pain.

Taking a positive approach to arthritis can make all the difference in creating and sustaining life-altering habits. Since arthritis is a group of conditions involving damage to the joints of the body, it’s important for those suffering to accept their limitations and develop better coping strategies as a way to adjust to life with chronic pain.

Below are five tips that can help an individual deal with the challenges of arthritis while maintaining a positive attitude.

Educate – Learning more about the symptoms, treatments, therapies, and the role of diet and exercise will help you to understand the importance of adjusting to your lifestyle with arthritis. Using a computer as a resource, you could access support groups to ask questions and share experiences.

Motivate – When pain becomes too much, focus on staying motivated. Remember the things you can do versus what you cannot, set goals and devise strategies to reach them, and always remain as active as possible to avoid losing your independence.

Medicate – As a large part of treatment, medication is vital in helping to live life to the fullest with arthritis. To successfully relieve pain and reduce inflammation, remember to take medications as prescribed, regularly and routinely.

Meditate – The inability to complete daily routine tasks can wreak havoc on you mentally. Remaining calm and relaxed will help to relieve tension and stress associated with arthritis.

Concentrate – Avoid dwelling on things that are no longer in your control. It will not help to improve your condition, but maintaining a positive attitude, staying active, and setting realistic goals will contribute to a better quality of life.

If you, or someone you know, is experiencing arthritis and would like more information regarding its symptoms and treatment options, contact Black Hills Orthopedic & Spine Center at (605) 385-0085.